Device and method for closing at least one thin-walled transporting container which has at least one opening and is intended for items of value

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to a device ( 10, 30, 40, 50, 60 ) for closing at least one thin-walled transport container ( 12 ) for articles of value, said transport container having at least one opening. The device ( 10, 30, 40, 50 ) has at least one first closing element ( 14 ) and a second closing element ( 16 ) arranged at a distance to the first closing element ( 14 ). The first closing element ( 14 ) comprises at least one first snap-in element ( 18   a  to  18   c ) and the second closing element ( 16 ) comprises at least one second snap-in element ( 20   a  to  20   c ) that is complementary to the first snap-in element ( 18   a  to  18   c ). The first closing element ( 14 ) and the second closing element ( 16 ) are arranged such that at least a part of the opening of the transport container ( 12 ) opened for feeding the articles of value can be arranged between the first closing element ( 14 ) and the second closing element ( 16 ) and that by a movement of at least one closing element ( 14, 16 ) with a part of the transport container ( 12 ) arranged between the closing elements ( 14, 16 ) a snap-in connection between the first snap-in element ( 18   a  to  18   c ) and the second snap-in element ( 20   a  to  20   c ) can be formed. Further, the invention relates to a method for closing at least one thin-walled transport container ( 12 ).

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a U.S. National Stage Application of International Application No. PCT/EP2009/066639, filed Dec. 8, 2009, and published in the German language as WO/2010/066739 on Jun. 17, 2010. This application claims the benefit and priority of German Application No. 10 2008 061 529.3, filed Dec. 10, 2008. The entire disclosures of the above applications are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

This section provides background information related to the present disclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

1. Technical field

The invention relates to a device for closing at least one thin-walled transport container for articles of value, said transport container having at least one opening. The device has at least one first closing element and a second closing element arranged at a distance to the first closing element. Further, the invention relates to a method for closing at least one thin-walled transport container for articles of value, said transport container having at least one opening.

2. Discussion

A device of this type is preferably used in machines for handling notes of value, which can dispense and/or accept notes of value. Notes of value are, for example, banknotes, vouchers or papers of value. It is known to provide notes of value, in particular banknotes, in a stacked manner in cassettes that can be supplied to a cash dispensing machine or a so-called cash recycling machine. Cash recycling machines can accept and check supplied notes of value in a first transaction and again dispense these notes of value in a second transaction. In this connection, known cassettes for notes of value serve as transport containers which, during transport outside of the machine, are closed by suitable security devices and may only be opened by authorized people and with the aid of suitable auxiliary devices. If it is possible to feed notes of value to the machine, the machine determines the value and/or the format of each note of value and, dependent on the value and/or format determined, feeds this note of value to a cassette suitable for this value or this format. When a cassette is filled with notes of value, it can be removed from the machine and then also serves as a transport container.

As transport containers for the notes of value not only cassettes closed on all sides but also thin-walled transport containers, in particular security bags made of foil material, are used. These are, for example, useful when a secured storing unit, such as a suitcase or the like, is available for the transport of these transport containers so that the relatively complex cassettes can be dispensed with.

Thin-walled transport containers of this type should however be closed prior to their transport so that unauthorized access is not possible or unauthorized access is immediately recognized as a manipulation. The following three methods may be used for closing a thin-walled transport container:

The first method is the thermal closing of the thin-walled transport container. The thermal closing can, in particular, be effected by welding or shrinking. One disadvantage of this thermal closing is that the energy demand is relatively high. Further, it is disadvantageous that, as a result thereof, a high thermal load is exerted on the machine and/or the notes of value, which reduces the lifetime of the machine and of the notes of value. Further, the notes of value contained in the thin-walled transport container may be directly damaged by the high temperatures.

A second possible method for closing the thin-walled transport container is the gluing together of the walls of the thin-walled transport container in the area of a feeding opening. For a variable filling volume of the transport container, the glue must be applied onto the thin-walled transport container within the machine. A device of this type is maintenance-prone, requires a relatively large installation space and is relatively expensive.

A third possible method for closing the thin-walled transport container is the mechanical closing by means of a zipper and a subsequent sealing of the zipper. What is disadvantageous here is that two operations, namely the closing of the zipper and the sealing, have to be implemented. Especially the sealing can only be automated at considerable expense. A variable filling volume cannot be realized with the third method either.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is an aspect of the invention to specify a device and a method for closing at least one thin-walled transport container for articles of value, said transport container having at least one opening, by means of which device or method the thin-walled transport container can easily be closed in a secure manner.

The invention preferably includes a first closing element comprises at least one first snap-in element and a second closing element comprises at least one second snap-in element that is complementary to the first snap-in element. The first closing element and the second closing element are arranged such that at least a part of the opening of the transport container that is opened for feeding the articles of value can be arranged between the first and the second closing element and that by means of a movement of at least one closing element with a part of the transport container arranged between the closing elements a snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element can be formed. The transport container is easily closed in a secure manner by means of this snap-in connection, and unauthorized access is prevented or made more difficult.

It is advantageous when by means of a single-axis movement of at least one closing element with a part of the transport container arranged between the closing elements the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element can be formed. In this way, the closing of the transport container can easily be automated. Such a single-axis movement can, in particular, be the pressing together of the first and the second snap-in element for forming the snap-in connection.

Advantageously, the articles of value are notes of value, in particular banknotes. Notes of value can easily be stacked in the thin-walled transport container.

Further, it is advantageous when the transport container is a receiving bag, in particular a receiving bag made of foil material or tissue material. Receiving bags of this type may be produced cost-efficiently and can easily be handled due to their low weight. Further, as a result thereof, the volume of the transport container can easily be adapted to the amount of articles of value to be transported.

The snap-in elements are preferably formed as one piece with the respective closing elements. In this way, on the one hand an easy, cost-efficient production of the closing and snap-in elements is achieved and on the other hand the strength is increased as joints are not necessary.

Further, it is advantageous when the snap-in connection formed by the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element cannot be released non-destructively. In particular, it is advantageous when the first snap-in element and/or the second snap-in element have at least one predetermined breaking point at which the first snap-in element or, respectively, the second snap-in element breaks when the snap-in connection is released. In this way, it is prevented that one or more articles of value can be removed unnoticed from the transport container by an unauthorized person. Unauthorized access to the articles of value can thus be easily recognized and can be punished immediately.

In addition, it is advantageous to arrange the first closing element and the second closing element such that when forming the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element the part of the transport container is closed in which the articles of value are contained. In this way, a surrounding of the articles of value by the transport container as tight as possible is made possible so that, during transport, the articles of value can be transported in the transport container as motion-free as possible and/or remain in their original order. This simplifies the handling. Further, a variable filling volume of the transport container is achieved in this way.

In addition, it is advantageous when at least one snap-in element pierces at least one wall, preferably both walls, of the transport container at least once when the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element is formed. This guarantees a secure irreversible closing of the transport container, and unauthorized access to the articles of value contained in the transport container is prevented.

It is particularly advantageous that, when the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element exists, at least one snap-in element projects through at least one opening of at least one wall of the transport container, which opening is formed by at least one snap-in element when the closing elements are brought together. Preferably, at least one snap-in element projects through an opening of a first wall of the transport container and an opening of a second wall of the transport container.

Alternatively, a part of the wall of the transport container can be clamped between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element when the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element exists. In this way, the wall of the thin-walled transport container is not pierced, as a result whereof the thin-walled transport container can be used several times.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the first closing element and the second closing element are connected to each other with the aid of at least one connecting element. Advantageously, the first closing element and the second closing element are arranged parallel to each other, the first closing element and the second closing element are connected to each other via two connecting elements, the connecting elements are arranged axially symmetrically with respect to an axis that is orthogonal to the closing elements and extends through the centers of the closing elements. Preferably, the connecting elements are bendable toward the transport container. Segments of the respective connecting element that are preferably connected to the closing elements via hinges, in particular segments connected to each other and to the closing elements via film hinges, are used as connecting elements. In this way, a guidance of the transport container and a guidance of the closing elements during closing of the transport container are achieved. Further, with the aid of the connecting elements, the transport container can be folded inward at each side facing the connecting elements. This increases the stability of the closed transport container. By way of the connecting elements, the closing elements are held together so that the closing elements and the connecting elements form a one-piece frame. This frame can easily be handled. In particular, the one-piece frame can easily be inserted into a device, in particular an automated teller machine. Further, by way of the connecting elements a guidance of the transport container at the sides facing the connecting elements is achieved. This prevents that, when the closing elements are brought together, a part of the transport container is laterally forced out next to the closing elements that have been brought together, which would make unauthorized access to the articles of value received in the transport container easier.

It is particularly advantageous when the first closing element, the second closing element and the connecting elements are formed as one piece, preferably integrally. This makes an easy, cost-efficient mounting of the device for closing the thin-walled transport containers possible.

In addition it is advantageous when the first closing element and/or the second closing element comprise at least one pin-shaped element which pierces at least one wall of the transport container when the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element is formed. By means of this pin-shaped element, access to the articles of value contained in the transport container is further made more difficult as by way of this pin-shaped element the width of the opening remaining between two snap-in connections or between an outer snap-in connection and a lateral boundary of the transport container is reduced.

Further, the invention relates to a method for closing at least one thin-walled transport container for articles of value, said transport container having at least one opening, in which method at least a part of the opening of the transport container that is opened for feeding the articles of value is arranged between a first closing element comprising at least one first snap-in element and a second closing element comprising at least one second snap-in element that is complementary to the first snap-in element. Further, at least one closing element is moved toward the other closing element, the opening of the transport container being reduced in this way. Further, a snap-in connection between the first snap-in element of the first closing element and the second snap-in element of the second closing element is formed.

The method specified by the independent method claim can be developed in the same manner as the device according to the invention. In particular, the method can be developed with the features specified in the dependent device claims or with corresponding method features.

Further features and advantages of the invention result from the following description which in connection with the enclosed Figures explains the invention in more detail with reference to embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 shows a schematic illustration of a cross-section of a device for closing thin-walled transport containers together with such a thin-walled transport container in an opened state according to a first embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 shows a schematic illustration of a cross-section of the device and of the thin-walled transport container according to FIG. 1 in a closed state.

FIG. 3 shows a schematic illustration of a cross-section of the device and of the transport container according to FIG. 1 in a second closed state.

FIG. 4 shows a schematic illustration of a cross-section of a device for closing thin-walled transport containers and a thin-walled transport container in an opened state according to a second embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 shows a schematic illustration of a cross-section of the device and of the transport container according to FIG. 4 in a closed state.

FIG. 6 shows a schematic illustration of a cross-section of a device for closing thin-walled transport containers in an opened state according to a third embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 shows a schematic illustration of a cross-section of the device according to FIG. 6 in a closed state.

FIG. 8 shows a perspective schematic illustration of a device for closing transport containers according to FIGS. 1 to 7 in an opened state and an additional frame.

FIG. 9 shows a perspective schematic illustration of a device for closing a transport container according to a further embodiment of the invention.

Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Example embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings.

In FIG. 1, a schematic illustration of a cross-section of a device 10 for closing thin-walled transport containers 12 and a thin-walled transport container 12 is shown in an opened state. The device 10 comprises a first closing element 14 and a second closing element 16. The first closing element 14 in turn comprises three first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c. The snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c are preferably identical and the distance between two adjacent snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c is preferably the same each time. Likewise, the second closing element 16 comprises altogether three second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c. The second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c are formed and arranged complementarily to the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c. The second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c of the second closing element 16 are preferably identical. The distance between two adjacent snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c is likewise preferably the same each time.

In the embodiment according to FIG. 1, the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c are formed as one piece with the first closing element 14, and the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c are formed as one piece with the second closing element 16. Alternatively, the first closing element 14 and the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c or, respectively, the second closing element 16 and the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c may also be separate component parts. Then, the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c are firmly connected to the first closing element 14 via a suitable connection each, and each of the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c is firmly connected to the second closing element 16 with the aid of a suitable connection.

The snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c or, respectively, 20 a to 20 c are arranged at the first closing element 14 or, respectively, at the second closing element 16 such that by a movement of the first closing element 14 and/or of the second closing element 16 a snap-in connection between the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c and the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c can be formed. This movement is preferably a single-axis movement. Such a single-axis movement can easily be automated. The axis of the single-axis movement is orthogonal with respect to the first closing element 14 and the second closing element 16. The single-axis movement is indicated by the arrows A and B in FIG. 1.

In the opened state of the device 10 illustrated in FIG. 1, the first closing element 14 and the second closing element 16 are arranged to each other at a predetermined distance. The first closing element 14 and the second closing element 16 are preferably arranged parallel to each other. The thin-walled transport container 12 is at least partially arranged between the first closing element 14 and the second closing element 16. The thin-walled transport container 12 has an opening for feeding the articles of value, which opening is opened in the opened state illustrated in FIG. 1. The distance between the first closing element 14 and the second closing element 16 is at least so large that the opening of the transport container 12 may be opened at least so far that the largest article of value to be supplied can be supplied through the opened opening and into a receiving area of the transport container for receiving the articles of value. The articles of value are supplied to the transport container 12 in that they are transported into the transport container 12 in the direction of an axis that is orthogonal with respect to the sectional plane shown in FIG. 1.

The articles of value to be transported are preferably notes of values, in particular banknotes. The banknotes are conveyed into the transport container 12 with the aid of a banknote transport mechanism, in particular a vane wheel. Such transport mechanisms are known from the non-pre-published patent applications DE 10 2008 018 935.9 and DE 10 2008 018 961.8. The structure and the function of the banknote transport mechanisms described therein, in particular the structure and the function of the feeding and separating modules described therein, are herewith incorporated by reference into the present description.

The thin-walled transport container 12 is preferably a bag 12, in particular a bag of foil material, such as a plastic bag. Such bags 12 can be produced cost-efficiently, are easy to handle and hard-wearing. Alternatively or additionally, the bag 12 may also comprise tissue material.

Further, the second closing element 16 comprises two pin-shaped elements 22 a, 22 b. These pin-shaped elements will still be explained in more detail in the following in connection with FIG. 2.

In FIG. 2, a schematic illustration of a cross-section of the device 10 and of the transport container 12 according to FIG. 1 is shown in a closed state. Elements having the same structure or the same function are identified with the same reference signs.

When all articles of value to be transported have been inserted into the transport container 12 and/or when the transport container 12 is filled to a maximum, then the first closing element 14 and the second closing element 16 are moved in the direction of the arrows A and B until the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c and the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c engage with each other and the transport container 12 is closed by the snap-in connection formed by the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c and the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c. This closed state is shown in FIG. 2. In the closed state, the first snap-in element 18 a snaps into the second snap-in element 20 a, the first snap-in element 18 b snaps into the second snap-in element 20 b and the first snap-in element 18 c snaps into the second snap-in element 20 c. In the present embodiment, the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c each have the form of a hook that is symmetrical with respect to its longitudinal axis, in the style of a double barbed hook. Each first snap-in element 18 a to 18 c comprises a connecting segment 23 and two flank segments 19 a, 19 b. The longitudinal axis of the connecting segment 23 is orthogonal with respect to the first closing element 14 and is firmly connected to this closing element 14 with a first end. Each of the flank segments 19 a, 19 b is firmly connected with a first end to the second end of the connecting segment 23. The flank segments 19 a, 19 b are arranged such that they are arranged axially symmetrically or mirror-symmetrically with respect to the connecting segment 23. The flank segments 19 a, 19 b, the connecting segment 23 and the closing element 14 are preferably integrally formed.

Each second snap-in element 20 a to 20 c comprises two engagement elements 21 a, 21 b into which one flank segment 19 a, 19 b each engages or snaps into place in the closed state. Each engagement element 21 a, 21 b is firmly connected to the second closing element 16 at a first end. The second end of each engagement element 21 a, 21 b opposite to the first end is bent in the direction of the respective other engagement element 21 a, 21 b. The two engagement elements 21 a, 21 b preferably do not contact each other so that there is an opening 24 between them. The width of the opening 24 is smaller than the distance between the second ends of the two flank segments 19 a, 19 b of the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c that lie opposite to the first ends.

When forming the snap-in connection between the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c and the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c, the closing elements 14, 16 are moved toward each other, and in this way, the opening of the transport container 12 is reduced until the opening of the transport container 12 is at least almost completely closed. In this case, the wall of the transport container 12 facing the second closing element 16 rests on the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c, and the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c press against the wall of the transport container 12 opposite to the wall facing the second closing element 16. By way of the forces acting orthogonally to the first closing element 14 and the second closing element 16, the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c pierce the two walls of the transport container 12 when the closing elements 14, 16 are further brought together. The flank segments 19 a, 19 b of the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c are pressed together by the engagement elements 21 a, 21 b of the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c and/or the engagement elements 21 a, 21 b are pushed apart until the distance between the second ends of the flank segments 19 a, 19 b is as large as the opening 24 between the engagement elements 21 a, 21 b so that the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c can be inserted into the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c. As soon as the flank segments 19 a, 19 b of the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c have been completely moved through the opening 24 between the engagement elements 21 a, 21 b of the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c, the flank segments 19 a, 19 b and/or the engagement elements 21 a, 21 b spring back into their original position due to their elasticity so that the distance between the second ends of the flank segments 19 a, 19 b is again larger than the opening 24 between the engagement elements 21 a, 21 b. As a result thereof, the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c, similar to a barbed hook, cannot be removed again or pulled out of the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c without the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c and/or the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c being destroyed.

When forming the snap-in connection, the two closing elements 14, 16 are preferably moved toward each other by a motor. In particular, an electric motor is used for this.

The snap-in connection formed by the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c and the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c is thus also referred to as irreversible. By way of the irreversible connection of the snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c, 20 a to 20 c it is achieved that it can easily be recognized whether the snap-in connection was opened by an unauthorized person. In this way, manipulation attempts and/or accesses to the articles of value received in the transport container 12 can be prevented or such manipulation attempts can be punished immediately. The first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c and/or the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c can each have one or more predetermined breaking points at which the snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c, 20 a to 20 c will break when someone tries to open the snap-in connection formed by the snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c, 20 a to 20 c.

In the closed state shown in FIG. 2, the pin-shaped elements 22 a, 22 b likewise pierce the walls of the transport container 12. In this way, the respective distance between the respective outermost snap-in element 18 a to 18 c, 20 a to 20 c and the ends 26, 28 of the closed transport container 12 is reduced. As a result thereof, access to the articles of value received in the transport container 12, for example, with the aid of a pair of tweezers, is additionally made more difficult.

In FIG. 3, a schematic illustration of a cross-section of the device 10 according to FIG. 1 and of a transport container 12 in a further closed state is shown. Compared to the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3 the transport container 12 is made of a material that is so elastic that, when forming the snap-in connection between the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c and the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c, this material is not pierced by the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c but is clamped between the second ends of the flank segments 19 a, 19 b of the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c and the second ends of the engagement elements 21 a, 21 b of the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c. Here, the transport container 12 is clamped such that it cannot be moved out from between the closing elements 14, 16. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the transport container 12 can be used several times as the transport container 12 is not damaged by the snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c, 20 a to 20 c when the snap-in connection is formed.

In FIG. 4, a schematic illustration of a cross-section of a further embodiment of a device for closing thin-walled transport containers 12 and of a thin-walled transport container 12 in an opened state are shown. Elements which are identical to elements shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 are identified with the same reference signs as in FIGS. 1 to 3.

The first closing element 14 and the second closing element 16 are connected to each other via two connecting elements 32 a, 32 b. The longitudinal axes of the first closing element 14 and of the second closing element 16 are arranged parallel to each other. The first connecting element 32 a and the second connecting element 32 b are arranged axially symmetrically with respect to an axis that is orthogonal to the longitudinal axes of the first closing element 14 and of the second closing element 16 and that extends through the centers of the first closing element 14 and the second closing element 16. The connecting elements 32 a, 32 b are designed in the form of film hinges. Alternatively, also other connecting elements may be used.

The closing elements 14, 16 and the connecting elements 32 a and 32 b together form a closed frame. Preferably, the closing elements 14, 16 and the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b are formed as one piece.

The closing elements 14, 16 and the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b are preferably made of plastic material. In particular, they are made of polyethylene (PE) or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS).

The connecting elements 32 a, 32 b have a tapering 34 a to 34 d at each transition to the closing elements 14, 16. Further, each of the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b has a further tapering 36 a, 36 b at its center. By the taperings 34 a to 34 d, 36 a, 36 b, one film hinge each is formed. In the opened state shown in FIG. 4, the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b are slightly bent toward the transport container 12 so that the bending direction is thus predetermined when the closing elements 14, 16 are pressed together.

When the device 30 is closed, the closing elements 14, 16 are moved toward each other. Here, the closing elements 32 a, 32 b are bent further toward the transport container 12 until they are arranged almost parallel to the closing elements 14, 16. Here, the transport container 12 is folded inward with the aid of the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b at the sides facing the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b. As a result, access to the articles of value received in the transport container 12 is made more difficult in the case of a manipulation attempt. Further, by means of the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b, a guidance of the transport container 12 at the sides facing the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b is achieved. In this way it is prevented that, when the closing elements 14, 16 are brought together, a part of the transport container 12 is laterally forced out next to the closing elements 14, 16 that have been brought together, which would make unauthorized access to the articles of value received in the transport container 12 easier.

Further, each connecting element 32 a, 32 b has two holes 38 a to 38 d. The holes 38 a to 38 d are arranged such that, in the closed state, the pin-shaped elements 22 a, 22 b project through these holes 38 a to 38 d.

Such a closed state of the device 30 according to FIG. 4 is shown in FIG. 5. The forming of the snap-in connection and the closing of the transport container 12 by the snap-in connection are implemented in the same manner as already described in connection with FIG. 2.

In FIG. 6, a schematic illustration of a cross-section of a device 40 for closing thin-walled transport containers according to a further embodiment of the invention is shown in the opened state. Elements which correspond to the elements from FIGS. 1 to 5 are identified with the same reference signs as the corresponding elements in FIGS. 1 to 5. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 6, the snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c, 20 a to 20 c are not illustrated. The thin-walled transport container 12 is likewise not illustrated.

The first closing element 14 and the second closing element 16 each have a thickening 42, 44 at their center that is directed toward the respective other closing element 14, 16. The taperings 34 a to 34 d are formed on the side of the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b facing the transport container 12. The taperings 36 a, 36 b are formed on the side of the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b facing away from the transport container 12. The connecting elements 32 a, 32 b are not or only slightly bent.

In FIG. 7, a schematic cross-section of the device 40 according to FIG. 6 is shown in a closed state. By means of the thickenings 42, 44 of the closing elements 14, 16, the transport container 12 is additionally clamped in the closed state so that at least the space for possible manipulations in the area of the opening of the transport container 12 is reduced.

In FIG. 8, a perspective schematic illustration of a device 50 for closing thin-walled transport containers and of a further frame 52 is shown. Elements which correspond to the elements from FIGS. 1 to 7 are identified in FIG. 8 with the same reference signs as in FIGS. 1 to 7. For simplification of the illustration, the snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c, 20 a to 20 c of the device 50 are not illustrated in FIG. 8.

As viewed in transport direction P1 of the articles of value, a frame 52 is arranged upstream of the device 50. The transport container 12 not illustrated in FIG. 8 is placed around the frame 52 and is preferably mounted to the frame 52. The transport container 12 forms a stock at the perimeter of the frame 52. For forming a stock at the outer perimeter of the frame 52, the transport container 12 is wound up or gathered. Therefore, the frame 52 is also referred to as bag storage.

The first closing element 14 and the second closing element 16 of the device 50 each have two profile rails 54 a to 54 d which are mounted to the closing element 14, 16 such that they face toward the respective other closing element 14, 16. The rails 54 a to 54 d serve to keep the transport container 12 at a distance to the snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c, 20 a to 20 c when the transport container 12 is moved through the device 50 during filling with the articles of value. Further, the rails increase the stability of the device 50. Advantageously, the closing elements 14, 16 and the associated rails 54 a to 54 d are each formed as one piece as a U-profile. The rails 54 a to 54 d or, respectively, profiles are arranged and/or formed such that they at least partially overlap or partially engage with each other in the closed state of the device 50.

Advantageously, the transport container 12 is wound up or gathered at the frame 52 such that it forms a stock and is wound off step-by-step by the filling with the articles of value. In this way, the length of the transport container 12 is increased and the stock at the frame 52 is reduced. As a result thereof, the volume of the transport container 12 can be adapted to the amount of articles of value to be transported. In this case, the device 50 will only close the part of the transport container 12 that is actually filled with the articles of value. This simplifies the handling of the transport container 12.

Alternatively, the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c can also be formed as rails extending in the longitudinal direction of the second closing element 16 in the form of a C-profile. In this embodiment, also the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c are turned by 90° so that these can snap into place in L-profiles. By way of the C-profile rails, the stability of the device is increased.

In FIG. 9, a perspective schematic illustration of a device 60 for closing a transport container 12 according to a further embodiment of the invention is shown. In contrast to the device 50 according to FIG. 8, the first closing element 14 of the device 60 according to FIG. 9 comprises four short rails 62 a to 62 d instead of one closed rail 54 a. The rails 62 a to 62 d are arranged such that the gaps between each two of these rails 62 a to 62 d are located where the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c are located.

The connecting elements 32 a, 32 b comprise at their ends at the side facing the transport container 12 one guiding element 64 a to 64 d each. The guiding elements 64 a to 64 d are rounded-off at the side facing the transport container 12. The guiding elements 64 a to 64 d serve to keep the transport container 12 at a distance to the edges of the rails 54 b to 54 d and thus to prevent damage to the transport container 12 when it is guided past. Further, by way of the guiding elements 64 a to 64 d it is prevented that the transport container 12 is jammed between the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b and the rails 54 b, 54 d when the transport container 12 is guided past during its filling, and thus that it might be damaged.

The first closing element 14 and the second closing element 16 each have two holes 66 a to 66 d. The holes 66 a to 66 d are arranged such that the guiding elements 64 a to 64 d of the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b project through these holes 66 a to 66 d when the snap-in connection between the first snap-in elements 18 a to 18 c and the second snap-in elements 20 a to 20 c is formed.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b each have a hole at the transitions to the closing elements 14, 16. When the device 60 is mounted in a holding arrangement, hook-shaped engagement elements of the holding arrangement engage with these holes, said engagement elements being biased via a spring arrangement such that the closing elements 14, 16 are pushed apart so that the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b are not or only slightly bent. Alternatively, the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b may have L-shaped recesses instead of the holes, in which recesses the hook-shaped engagement elements are received. In an alternative embodiment, the connecting elements 32 a, 32 b may comprise pin-shaped elements at the side facing away from the transport container instead of the holes. With the aid of these pin-shaped elements, the closing elements 14, 16 are moved apart with the aid of engagement elements that are complementary to the pin-shaped elements. Alternatively or additionally, a hole, an L-shaped recess and/or pin-shaped elements can be provided in or at the closing elements 14, 16.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one of the closing elements 14, 16 and/or at least one connecting element 32 a, 32 b comprises at least one safety feature. This safety feature preferably serves to authenticate the device 60 and/or to clearly identify the device 60. By way of this safety feature it is to be prevented that the device 60 is opened, while being destroyed, and is replaced by another device having the same structure as the device 60 without this being noticed. The safety feature is, for example, a writing field on which, in particular, a double signature of two different people may be applied. Additionally or alternatively, at least one RFID chip, at least one barcode and/or at least one serial number may be provided which are applied to the device 60 or are integrated therein.

The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention. Individual elements or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the invention, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the invention. 

1. A device for closing at least one thin-walled transport container for articles of value, said transport container having at least one opening, comprising: at least one first closing element and a second closing element arranged at a distance to the first closing element, wherein the first closing element includes at least one first snap-in element and wherein the second closing element comprises at least one second snap-in element that is complementary to the first snap-in element, and wherein the first closing element and the second closing element are arranged such that at least a part of the opening of the transport container opened for feeding the articles of value can be arranged between the first closing element and the second closing element and that by a movement of at least one closing element with a part of the transport container arranged between the closing elements a snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element can be formed.
 2. The device according to claim 1, wherein by a movement of at least one closing element with a part of the transport container arranged between the closing elements a snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element can be formed, the distance between the first closing element and the second closing element being reduced by the movement.
 3. The device according to claim 1, wherein by a single-axis movement of at least one closing element with a part of the transport container arranged between the closing elements a snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element can be formed.
 4. The device according to claim 1, wherein the articles of value are notes of value, in particular banknotes.
 5. The device according to claim 1, wherein the transport container is a receiving bag, in particular a receiving bag made of foil material or tissue material.
 6. The device according to claim 1, wherein the snap-in elements are formed as one piece with the respective closing element.
 7. The device according to claim 1, wherein the snap-in connection formed by the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element cannot be released non-destructively.
 8. The device according to claim 7, wherein the first snap-in element and/or the second snap-in element has at least one predetermined breaking point at which the first snap-in element or, respectively, the second snap-in element breaks when the snap-in connection is released.
 9. The device according to claim 1, wherein the first closing element and the second closing element are arranged such that, when the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element is formed, the part of the transport container into which the articles of value are inserted is closed.
 10. The device according to claim 1, wherein at least one snap-in element pierces at least one wall of the transport container at least once when the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element exists.
 11. The device according to claim 1, wherein when the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element exists, at least one snap-in element projects through at least one opening of at least one wall of the transport container, which opening is formed by at least one snap-in element when the closing elements are brought together.
 12. The device according to claim 1, wherein a part of the wall of the transport container is clamped between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element when the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element exists.
 13. The device according to claim 1, wherein the first closing element and the second closing element are connected to each other with the aid of at least one connecting element.
 14. The device according to claim 13, wherein the first closing element and the second closing element are parallel to each other, the first closing element and the second closing element are connected to each other via two connecting elements, in particular two hinges, the connecting elements are arranged mirror-symmetrically with respect to an axis that is orthogonal to the closing elements and extends through the centers of the closing elements, and the connecting elements are bendable toward the transport container.
 15. The device according to claim 14, wherein the first closing element, the second closing element and the connecting elements are formed as one piece, in particular integrally.
 16. The device according to claim 1, wherein the first closing element and/or the second closing element comprise at least one pin-shaped element which pierces the transport container when the snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element exists.
 17. A method for closing at least one thin-walled transport container for articles of value, said transport container having at least one opening, in which at least a part of the opening of the transport container opened for feeding the articles of value is arranged between a first closing element comprising at least one first snap-in element and a second closing element comprising at least one second snap-in element that is complementary to the first snap-in element, in which at least one closing element is moved toward the other closing element, the opening of the transport container is reduced in this way, and a snap-in connection between the first snap-in element and the second snap-in element is formed. 